Larson Meets with Community College Presidents to Discuss Creation of College Partnership Tax Credits

Hartford – Last night, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) met with the presidents of local community colleges to discuss legislation he is drafting that would provide tax credits to employers who collaborate with local schools to develop curricula that meet industry needs and then hire students upon graduation. The bill is based on a proposal from President Barack Obama’s FY2017 budget proposal, and would foster partnerships between local businesses and community colleges in order to create a more skilled workforce and a pipeline to meaningful employment.

“There are jobs available right now in growth industries such as health services, advanced manufacturing, and numerous other fields,” said Larson. “Connecticut community colleges already do a tremendous job of preparing students for the workforce, especially through their Advanced Manufacturing Centers. By partnering with a wide-range of businesses to help shape the curriculum and offer career employment, we can ensure community college graduates have the training and tools they need to excel in a job market that keeps growing.”

Larson’s proposal would create a new $5,000 tax credit to be claimed by employers after they partner with community colleges for each graduate of the program they employ for a minimum of one year. Larson sat down with local college presidents to answer questions and gather their input on how to make this proposal most effective. He will continue to gather feedback from stakeholders as the bill is drafted.

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